The Complete Guide to Negotiating a Raise

By Eric Barker

December 20, 2013

Paychecks still haven’t recovered from the financial crisis and raises in the US have stagnated. But that doesn’t mean you shouldn’t push to increase your worth.

You want to know the going pay rate for your job, but it’s also important to link your success with that of your employer. Based on the science and psychology of negotiating for a heftier paycheck, here’s the complete guide to getting a raise:

Most raises are given to prevent good employees from leaving

You don’t usually get a raise because “you deserve it” or just because you worked hard. A 2010 study showed that raises are given to retain top performers. So if you’re not an A-team player at your office and upper management doesn’t feel you’re flight risk, don’t count on a significant bump in pay.

Make your accomplishments visible

Stanford Graduate School of Business professor Jeffrey Pfeffer told me that the key to getting ahead is getting along with your boss, working on the projects she’s interested in, and letting her know about your accomplishments. What’s the best way to do this without being overbearing? Once a week, send an email summing up all the forward progress you’re making.